Atypical Careers in Agriculture

Take a moment to consider the question, “What do you envision when you think of a career in agriculture?” Do you imagine farmers working on the land, planting crops, and harvesting with tractors? While these jobs are integral to agriculture, many more agricultural careers involve something other than being a farmer or rancher. As technological advances continue, new jobs that never existed before are being created, and we need individuals from all walks of life to fill these roles.  

In agriculture, many jobs do not directly involve growing crops or raising animals. For example, there are roles in power, structural, and technical systems that focus on creating and maintaining the tools used for agriculture. Alternatively, biotechnology jobs help enhance plants, animals, and microorganisms to have more desirable traits. The list of roles is endless, and we could go on and on. 

We need everyone’s talents and more people to enter the field to feed our expanding nation. Here are some less traditional agricultural jobs emphasizing everyone’s unique abilities and skills needed in agriculture.?  

1. AUTOMATION TECHNICIAN 

An automation technician installs, operates, and maintains computer/robotic systems. They program and modify computer programming while continuously updating them. Additionally, they offer training on equipment software, troubleshoot machine problems and ensure safety compliance. In agriculture, you may find these technicians troubleshooting automated crop pickers in the field or working in the factories that create these machines.?  

Is this Career Path for me? 

An automation technician role would be great for an individual who has a keen interest in electrical systems, mechanical components, and programming languages. Automation technology is constantly evolving, so this is an exciting role for those passionate about continuously learning and being on the cutting-edge of technology. Additionally, this role is excellent for someone who likes to work delicately with their hands.? 

Education  

Typically, a degree in engineering, electronics, process control, or computer science of a related field is required.  

Common Employers  

Automation technicians may work on farms that employ automated systems to optimize crop production and livestock management. They are also commonly found in adjacent companies that install machinery in food processing and packaging facilities. 

2. PRECISION AGRICULTURAL SPECIALIST  

Precision agriculture specialists provide support and technical assistance to growers using precision technologies on their farms. They support farmers by setting up tracking technologies such as Global Positioning Systems for soil sampling and developing information maps and recommendation maps. Additionally, they will analyze the data and make specialized recommendations on steps the growers should take after learning this information, such as what irrigation methods they should use and fertilizers. 

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Is this Career Path for me? 

Becoming a precision agriculture specialist would be great for individuals looking to spend their time both in the office and in the fields. Some days they will go out and visit farmers and help them set up technologies, while other days, they will process data at home. If you enjoy diversity in your role, then this might be the job for you.?  

Education 

A bachelor’s degree in agricultural business, agronomy, agriculture, or engineering is recommended for this role. Additionally, a certified crop adviser certification may be required.  

Common Employers  

Precision agriculture specialists generally work for companies that provide farmers with precision equipment and software solutions. Additionally, they may work for agricultural retailers and co-operatives.? 

3. PLANT GENETICIST  

Plant geneticists conduct research to understand, improve or create new varieties of plants or crops. They will develop research plans, conduct experiments and publish the reports of their findings. A plant geneticist will look at a plant’s DNA and examine ways to improve the plant’s shape, size, production level, pesticide and disease tolerance.?  

Is this Career Path for me? 

If you have an affinity for science and plants, then becoming a plant geneticist might be the career path for you. Plant geneticists deal with data on a small scale, so they must pay meticulous attention to details conducting experiments, which could lead to inaccurate results. If you enjoy exploring the unknown, analyzing data, and keeping accurate records of your work, then this could be the career for you. 

Education  

A bachelor’s degree in biology, genetics, botany, or biochemistry are great educational options for this role. Depending upon the employer and nature of the job, a master’s degree or doctorate (especially if doing research or teaching) may be required.  

Common Employers?  

These professionals work in a variety of settings, including agricultural and chemical companies. These companies are typically interested in improving crop traits or creating new chemicals to help farmers. Additionally, many plant geneticists may work for universities and colleges conducting fundamental research which can help the field.? 

4. HYDROLOGIST  

Hydrologists oversee and implement the examination of water above or below the earth’s surface through physical characteristics, distribution, and circulation. In agriculture, they will assess the availability, quality, and distribution of water resources in agricultural areas. They may work with farmers and irrigationists to determine the best irrigation practices for their farms.??  

Is this Career Path for me? 

Pursuing a career in this field means you are someone who likes to go out in the field and get your hands dirty, but also enjoy spending time in the office. Sometimes fieldwork may require individuals to be away from home for weeks or days in remote and rugged terrain. It would help if you also had an affinity for science and following the scientific method.? 

Education?  

Bachelor’s degrees in geography, civil engineering, environmental science, earth sciences, geology, or agriculture fit this career path. Positions that are research focused require a master’s or doctorate degree. 

Common Employers?  

Typically, hydrologists work for research firms, environmental consulting companies, conservation authorities, and federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal government departments. Additionally, they may work in research and not-for-profit and non-governmental organizations.? 

5. WELDER?  

Welders weld equipment, machines, and other agricultural necessities such as steel buildings. They will read and interpret layout plans, blueprints, and other drawings to plan how to carry out their welds. They use various welding methods such as arc, oxygen/acetylene, and MIG to get the job done.  

Is this Career Path for me? 

The welding profession is recommended to those who enjoy working with their hands and being physical with their work throughout the day. As a welder, many different types of welds are possible to allow creativity! Welders must determine the best ways to get a job done and problem-solve how to make a long-lasting weld.  

Education?  

A high school diploma is required to become a welder in Canada. Additionally, completion of a three-year apprenticeship program or a combination of over three years of work experience in the trade. Each province and territory is subject to its own requirements, so it is recommended to check local trade associations for exact details.?  

Common Employers?  

Welders are employed across industries; however, in agriculture, they are typically employed by farm equipment dealers and manufacturers, seed production companies and food companies in their maintenance departments.

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6. REGULATORY AFFAIRS SCIENTIST  

A regulatory scientist manages and helps to move products through the regulatory process. They are responsible for conducting studies and then communicating their findings to regulatory agencies in Canada and other countries to ensure the safety of crops, chemistry, and other products consumers use. Overall, they play a vital role in navigating the complex nature of regulatory landscapes.  

Is this Career Path for me? 

If you are an individual who likes to stay organized and pay attention to small details, then a path in regulatory might be for you. Agricultural products are subject to strict regulations, and as a professional in this field, you should enjoy thoroughly reviewing and understanding these requirements. Additionally, it would help if you were comfortable speaking with others as these scientists need to communicate how regulations will affect whom they are employed.?  

Education?  

Becoming a regulatory affairs scientist requires a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, such as earth science, geology, chemistry, or environmental science/engineering. However, some organizations may require a master’s or bachelor’s as this provides an in-depth understanding of chemical/biological processes related to agriculture.  

Common Employers?  

Regulatory scientists are often employed by companies/organizations conducting biotechnology and breeding research. These companies may develop and manufacture pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other agricultural chemicals. Additionally, they may be employed by government agencies that evaluate product registrations, set regulatory policies, and enforce compliance.

Explore more unique careers in agriculture at www.AgCareers.com. Check out over 300 career profiles!